Project Manager – Optical Communications

About the role

We are hiring Project Managers to work across several optical‑communication domains. You will oversee internal and external projects, from advancing the R&D of our flagship optical ground station TERRA‑M to planning international test campaigns, ensuring delivery of cutting‑edge laser‑communication technology.

Key responsibilities

• Manage product development projects to defined scope, timeline and budget, collaborating with growing PM and engineering teams.
• Translate technical requirements into clear project scopes and plans, aligning development plans with the technical backlog.
• Identify and manage project risks, inter‑dependencies and their impact on timelines and cross‑functional work streams.
• Monitor and control project finances, provide accurate forecasts and own forecast accuracy.
• Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers and customers.
• Coordinate formal documentation review and change‑control processes.

Required profile

• Full‑lifecycle product development experience in hardware and/or software within an R&D‑heavy, deep‑tech or space organisation.
• Experience with stage‑gate development processes and product hand‑over to production.
• Stakeholder management with commercial and quasi‑governmental bodies such as Innovate UK, UKSA or ESA.
• Proven ability to control project finances, from forecasts to claim and audit processes.
• Relevant project‑management qualification or equivalent extensive experience.

Required skills

• Laser communication technology
• Optical systems and ground‑segment knowledge
• Satellite systems domain understanding
• Agile methodology combined with long‑term waterfall planning

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on advanced optical systems supporting a world‑changing vision.
• Collaborative, transparent culture with strong cross‑function links.
• Regular socials, weekly company lunch and professional development in a specialist engineering field.
• Competitive salary, benefits package and equity options in a growing start‑up.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.